Cancer is a disease in which cells grow in an abnormal way. Normally, new cells develop in a controlled manner to replace old or damaged cells. With multiple myeloma, certain blood cells grow abnormally and cannot function properly. These cancer cells also crowd out normal cells, which can lead to problems with the immune system, oxygen delivery, and blood clotting.

Normal Blood Cells and the Development of Multiple Myeloma

All blood cells start as stem cells that are made in the bone marrow. Stem cells will eventually mature into a variety of different blood cell types that have specific functions in the body. These include:

Red blood cells—Carry oxygen from the lungs to the organs and cells of the body.

Multiple myeloma affects a type of white blood cell called plasma cells. Normally the body can maintain a consistent number of plasma cells in the body by replacing old or damaged cells with new ones. With multiple myeloma, there is an excessive development of new unnecessary plasma cells and the plasma cells do not develop normally. The cancerous cells cannot perform normal tasks of the plasma cells, which weakens the immune system. At the same time, the excess, abnormal cells also crowd the bone marrow, making it difficult for any healthy blood cells to develop.

Depending on the type of blood cells that are affected, low numbers of healthy blood cells can further weaken the immune system, interfere with oxygen delivery, or cause problems with blood clotting. The cancerous plasma cells leave the bone marrow and circulate in the blood and lymph systems. The cells can collect in certain organs like the kidneys, heart, or bones and cause further damage there.

The instruction for cell growth and cell death exists in the DNA of each cell. Multiple myeloma is the result of damage to DNA. The damage may be the result of genetics, environmental factors like radiation exposure, changes related to age, or a combination of these factors.

Types of Myeloma

It is possible for myeloma to present as one tumor in one location or be confined to one area around the tumor. However, almost all cases are considered multiple myeloma. That is, myeloma develops in the bone marrow and affects several areas of the body.

Multiple myeloma may be grouped as:

Smoldering—Disease is present, but it progresses slowly without symptoms.

Symptomatic—Disease is present and causing associated symptoms, such as bone or kidney disease, or is affecting healthy blood cell production and function.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.